VANCOUVER – New Democrat MLA Brenda Bailey says vulnerable people in Vancouver will have greater access to local services which will help tackle homelessness as the community recovers from the impacts of the pandemic.

“COVID-19 has brought many challenges for everyone but especially for people facing homelessness. It exposed big gaps in our society and put pressure on existing front-line services,” said Brenda Bailey, MLA for Vancouver-False Creek. “Our government moved quickly to protect people and we will continue to make sure our communities have the services they need as we recover. This funding will go far to help the City of Vancouver provide more dedicated services to people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and benefit everyone in our community.”

Vancouver is receiving $19,351,572 in joint provincial and federal funding for their municipal program which will provide access to shelter, washrooms, hygiene and supports to people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The program will also address impacts related to the increase in unsheltered homelessness by providing funding to keep streets, parks, and community centres cleaner and safer.

MLA Bailey says this investment is part of the Strengthening Communities Program which is providing support to 48 communities across B.C. Over $76 million will support local governments to combat the impacts of homelessness and keep their communities safe and healthy as they recover from the pandemic.

John Horgan and the BC New Democrat government are providing the support people need to build a recovery that leaves no one behind.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021MUNI0044-001589